The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said yesterday that a basic health insurance package for private-sector employees and domestic workers in the Northern Emirates will take effect from 1 January 2025.
The health insurance scheme will extend coverage to private-sector workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The system is already mandatory in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This will ensure that 100% of workers in the UAE are covered by insurance.
The package, available at a premium of at least AED320 ($87) a year, covers treatment expenses with a 20% co-payment for inpatient care if patients are hospitalised for medical treatment or surgeries. The insured pays a maximum of AED500 per visit with an annual cap of AED1,000, including medications. Beyond these limits, the insurance company covers 100% of treatment costs.
As for outpatient care patients who require medical visits, diagnostic tests, or minor procedures that do not necessitate a hospital stay, the co-payment is 25%, where the insured pays a maximum of AED100 per visit. No co-payment is required for follow-up visits for the same condition within seven days, while co-payments for medications are capped at 30%, with an annual cap of AED1,500.
The scheme covers individuals aged 1 to 64, while those over this age must complete a medical disclosure form and attach recent medical reports.
The basic plan network consists of seven hospitals, 46 clinics and medical centres and 45 pharmacies.
Dependents of the worker’ can access the same benefits and pricing as specified in the insurance policy. The scheme does not apply to employees with work permits issued before 1 January 2024 that remain valid, and will only become mandatory when their residency permits are due for renewal.